Bill > HB113

This bill establishes a new Animal Welfare Program and Fund in New Mexico designed to support the welfare of domestic cats and dogs. The program will provide grants and contracts to municipalities, counties, Native American tribes, and eligible nonprofit organizations to fund projects addressing animal welfare issues. These projects can include controlling stray animals, improving animal cruelty law enforcement, reducing shelter euthanasia rates, providing spay and neuter services, sheltering animals seized in cruelty cases, and developing public education materials. Applicants must submit detailed project proposals to the Department of Finance and Administration, which will conduct a competitive review process to select and fund projects. Grantees must spend allocated funds within two years and report project progress periodically. The bill also creates a dedicated Animal Welfare Program Fund in the state treasury, which will be financed through appropriations, gifts, grants, and donations. The department is required to submit an annual report to the legislative finance committee detailing funded projects, their costs, progress, and impact. By establishing this program, the bill aims to comprehensively address animal welfare challenges across the state through targeted, strategic funding and support.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=113&year=25